Most of us know the benefits of including anti-inflammatory foods in our diet. But did you know there are also anti-inflammatory foods and supplements that can help your dog or cat?
PetWell supplements are all-natural, human-grade ingredients that contain anti-inflammatory properties to help your pet build a strong immune system, and support their gut and joint health.
Inflammation in Dogs and Cats
Inflammation is a healthy and normal response the immune system uses for healing. This is called 'acute' or temporary inflammation. The problem is more with 'chronic' or long-term inflammation. For instance, if not managed, it can result in ongoing health issues.
Chronic inflammation is the main driver of serious health problems in pets today, including:
- organ damage
- arthritis
- cancer
- cardiovascular disease
- obesity
- muscular and skeletal diseases and more.
Processed pet food and over-medicating are the two lead causes of diseases that cause inflammation. Therefore, compromising your pet's immune system.
There are many natural foods that do not cause inflammation. In addition, they contribute to strengthening your pet’s immune system. Also providing overall well-being.
You can lower your pet's risk of chronic disease by including natural anti-inflammatory food and supplements in their diet.
A study published in 2010 shows there are 5,000 naturally occurring flavonoids in anti-inflammatory foods. They work to fight inflammation. As a result, protecting us and our pets from chronic diseases.
Foods that have naturally occurring antioxidants are also powerful. Helping fight inflammation and free radicals. Antioxidants are found in many foods.
You should avoid food and supplements with synthetic nutrients and ingredients.
It's important your pet gets natural antioxidants from their food and supplements. Avoid processed food and supplements. Most contain synthetic nutrients and ingredients. Proof of this was shown in a study reported that synthetic antioxidants are actually dangerous to human health. Therefore they are also dangerous for your pet.
Foods that Help Fight Inflammation
We've listed 10 of the most powerful anti-inflammatory foods that are beneficial for your pet.
1. Green-Lipped Mussel (GLM)
GLM is rich in anti-inflammatory nutrients. An excellent source of omega-3 acids. Plus glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, a compound of connective tissues such as joints and bones. GLM also contains vitamins C, E and B vitamins. Also antioxidants and minerals such as copper, zinc, and selenium. All of which are vital to pets' joint health. Read more about GLM
PetWell's supplements RELIEF Allergies and MOBILITY Hip + Joint Relief both contain GLM.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory and a powerful source of antioxidants. Growing research shows turmeric has a positive effect on gut function. Also, it can help with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) symptoms, ulcerative colitis symptoms, and other digestive disorders.
PetWell's supplements DIGEST Gut Relief and MOBILITY Hip + Joint Relief both contain turmeric.
3. Ginger
Ginger is best known for its ability to manage nausea, due to its calming effect on the gut. As a result, it supports pets with motion sickness, vomiting, sensitive stomach, gastrointestinal problems and bloating. It's an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. And can be useful for cognitive support.
PetWell's supplement DIGEST Gut Relief contains ginger.
4. Bone Broth
Bone broth contains glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate that helps joints stay strong. It also contains glycine for overall gut health, proline and arginine. These amino acids work on the whole body as an anti-inflammatory. The collagen in bone broth also helps with bone strength and development.
Ideal for pets of all ages, the benefits of bone broth are extensive. Also detoxing the liver, supporting heart health, healthy skin and coat and is an overall boost for their immune system.
PetWell's supplements MOBILITY Hip + Joint Relief contains bone broth.
5. Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow root is a powerful anti-inflammatory. This natural herb is used to help heal digestive issues and ease Inflammatory Bowel Disease in pets (IBD) and other inflammation-related diseases. Marshmallow root can soothe and protect muscle membranes, including the gut lining. It has also proven to be an effective treatment of urinary tract infections.
PetWell's supplement DIGEST Gut Relief contains Marshmallow root.
6. Organic Medicinal Mushrooms
A good blend of medicinal mushrooms can be a healing source of prebiotics. And an excellent source of natural prebiotics. Our unique blend of chaga, maitake, reishi & turkey tail also has additional health benefits. For example, their anti-allergic, anti-cholesterol, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumour, and anti-cancer properties. In addition, they can assist with liver and kidney issues and joint support. Medicinal mushrooms have also been shown to enhance brain function.
PetWell's supplement DIGEST Gut Relief contains chaga, maitake, reishi & turkey tail.
7. Spirulina
Spirulina is a super food and a natural source of glutamine which is anti-inflammatory. It's necessary for the growth and repair of the gut lining and as a result, provides relief for IBS symptoms. It is known to boost metabolism and aid in pets' digestion as it’s high in fibre.
Spirulina is an excellent source of B vitamins, essential fatty acids and protein. They all work to boost the immune system. Also rich in antioxidants, it helps to protect pets at a cellular level. Therefore, beneficial in protecting against disease-causing free radical cells. Studies have shown that diets supplemented with spirulina significantly enhanced immune response and gut health in pets.
PetWell's supplements RELIEF Allergies and DIGEST Gut Relief both contain spirulina.
8. Barley Grass
Barley grass is rich in a wide range of nutrients. Such as vitamin C, amino acids, chlorophyll, beta-carotene and minerals. A natural anti-inflammatory and source of antioxidants, it is suitable for pets of all ages.
The perfect ingredient to add to food providing active enzymes. Barley grass works to help support digestion, promote fresh breath, renewed energy, and healthier skin and coat. It also boosts the immune system and overall well-being.
PetWell's supplement RELIEF Allergies contains barley grass.
9. Cruciferous Vegetables
Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and brussel sprouts. All of which are high in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. They also have flavonoid kaempferol for bone loss prevention.
Red cabbage is the pick of the lot, containing higher levels of Vitamin C. And more than four times the amount of antioxidants than green, cooked cabbage.
10. Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are an excellent source of fibre, promoting digestive health and aiding in weight management by promoting feelings of fullness. Additionally, they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and have anti-inflammatory properties.
5 Other Ways to Reduce Inflammation
There are more ways you can support your pet’s health, limiting inflammation in their body.
1. Fruits
You can introduce some anti-inflammatory fruits that are high in natural flavours and antioxidants. Importantly, they should only be given as treats. These fruits are also high in vitamin C and other nutrients.
- Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and cranberries
- Mango
- Papaya
- Pineapple
- Watermelon
- Cantaloupe
- Goji Berries
Note: In this case, just be sure to feed your pets in moderation. These fruits are high in natural sugars that could affect pets with diabetes. Here a guide on the Best Vitamins & Minerals for Dogs & Cats | Natural Support
2. Raw and Fresh Food is Best
Giving your pet raw food means no hidden nasties are sneaking into their diet. Choose non-processed, real food as close to its natural state as possible. Read up on Raw Feeding for Dogs: Benefits, Myths & How to Start
3. Avoid Foods that can Cause Chronic Inflammation such as:
- Potatoes
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Processed meats
- Dry processed foods such as kibble
- Processed treats that are high in carbohydrates including sugar and gluten.
4. Regular Exercise
Ensure your pet receives regular exercise and fresh air. Keep your pet fit and at a healthy body weight. Read for Dog Exercise Tips and Benefits for a Healthier, Happier Pet
5. Supplements
Include all-natural supplements in your pet's diet. Always choose ones that contain anti-inflammatory ingredients. Also, ones high in essential fatty acids, probiotics and vitamins. These can all help reduce or heal chronic inflammation.
In order to increase your pet’s life span and ensure they have a good quality of life, it’s important to focus on what you feed them. Therefore, by introducing some of these anti-inflammatory foods or supplements we can change the course of our pet's health. Leading them to a happy, healthy, and pain-free life.
For more information on what foods are best for your dog and cat, check out our Pet Nutrition Guide: What to Feed Your Dog or Cat
The Science Behind It
Don’t just take our word for it, here are some evidence-based studies for you to review.
- Flavonoids: Naturally Occurring Anti-Inflammatory Agents.
- synthetic antioxidants are dangerous to human health
- Fighting free radicals
- The Role of Resveratrol in Cancer Therapy.
- Anti-inflammatory activity of natural dietary flavonoids.
- Crucial facts about health benefits of popular cruciferous vegetables.
- Quercetin, Inflammation and Immunity.
- Anti-inflammatory effects of five commercially available mushroom species determined in lipopolysaccharide and interferon-γ activated murine macrophages.
- Role of antioxidant lycopene in cancer and heart disease
- Anti-inflammatory effect of lycopene in SW480 human colorectal cancer cells.
- Free radicals, antioxidants and functional foods: Impact on human health.
- Food Antioxidants and Their Anti-Inflammatory Properties: A Potential Role in Cardiovascular Diseases and Cancer Prevention.
Disclaimer: The entire contents of PetWell emails and website are not to be taken as medical advice. The team at Pet Squad Pty Ltd trading as PetWell encourages you to make your own pet health care decisions based on your research and in partnership with a qualified pet healthcare professional.
Posted By Ayda Hornak - Trained in Canine Psychology and Natural Animal Nutrition Care
